Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor, Eric McFadden (WD8RIF), who is quite a Drake fan and recently spotted this SPR-4 on eBay.
The seller has it listed as an auction currently at $400, but with a BuyItNow price of $600 US. That’s a fairly steep price considering Universal Radio has sold them in the past for +/- $400. Of course, the last one in Universal’s sold index was posted in 2011.
I’ve never owned a Drake receiver, but I’ve certainly used them and have been impressed with their performance and audio fidelity. SPF-4 reviews on eHam are certainly positive.
Image source: Universal Radio
I know this: I love the blue backlit dials on this particular Drake line! Gorgeous!
I have an SPR-4 for sale if anyone is interested.
I have one selling in New Zealand for $500 USD, freight included. It was formerly owned by Paul Ormandy, one of New Zealand’s leading MW DXers.
Anybody who is interested can contact me on [email protected] for more information.
Sold for $600!
I remember seeing Drake equipment on display in the picture window of Harvey Radio in midtown Manhattan in the 70’s on my walk to work. Always admired their beauty.
My first pro SWL receiver was the SPR-4 back in 1975. Loved the audio. Wished I had kept it. It should be pretty easy to add full general coverage with a homebrew synthesizer, such as one based on Arduino and the AD9850 DDS.
If it is in pristine condition, it is a collectible for that reason. This one looks fine, has some very minor corrosion on the RCA jacks. otherwise it is overpriced at 600